Marwell Zoo, near Winchester
Hampshire is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable year of culture, coast and great days out. Whether you love historic cities, family‑friendly attractions or beautiful countryside, you’ll find plenty of Hampshire events to enjoy across the county in every season.
From city celebrations and outdoor festivals to family attractions and seasonal events, Hampshire offers an exciting calendar of events throughout 2026. This autumn in Portsmouth, the city celebrates its 100th anniversary, with the return of the colourful International Kite Festival filling the skies above Southsea Common (F) 12 - 13 September, whilst in November, We Shine returns, with light illuminations and displays from 19 - 21 November (F). In Winchester, its the fantastic annual torchlight procession and fireworks display that is a must for the diary, (7 November) filling the streets of this historic town with families, friends, visitors and residents alike, whilst in Basingstoke there's a whole host of spooktacular free family-fun this October half term in the town centre.
Don't miss the chance to enjoy the thrilling Go Ape experience by night this autumn at Itchen Valley Park, Southampton (16 October - 8 November), or miss the UK's biggest Oktoberfest at Southampton Guildhall Square, with music, Bavarian food and a themed marquee (23 - 24 October). Pick up a new autumn wardrode with a visit to John Lewis at WestQuay, or join their upcoming home design talk for some great ideas to refresh your decor (16 October) - a great all-weather day out. Enjoy the changing of the season with the Jane Austen circular walk, a four and half mile trail that starts from Jane Austen's House and explores some of East Hampshire's beautiful countryside.
From scenic coastlines and vibrant events to cosy villages, walking trails and excellent places to eat, Hampshire is the ideal destination for a short break or longer escape. Start planning your 2026 summer adventure today and discover some of the county's top events, attractions and experiences.
Grab your calendar and take a look at what's happening in Hampshire over the coming months with our featured events list or scroll to the bottom and discover hundreds of events happening today, this weekend and across this year. From coastal festivals and city celebrations to countryside walks, food experiences and family attractions, Hampshire offers one of the most varied events calendars in South East England.
You can find a wide range of events taking place across Hampshire today and this weekend, including theatre shows, interactive workshops, wildlife experiences and outdoor events in the Hampshire countryside. Use the date filters above, or browse the listings to find lots of inspiration and ideas for something happening near you. Families on a budget can look out for the many free events (Free) taking place.
If you're travelling from outside the county for an event in Hampshire, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs. Search Hampshire accommodation to plan your stay, whether your choose the coastal city of Portsmouth or Southampton, Winchester - the ancient capital of England - or a more rural stay in Chawton or Alton, East Hampshire.
Yes, Hampshire hosts a wide range of family-friendly events throughout the year, from nature trails, outdoor festivals, science fairs and interactive school holiday activities. Use the 'type filter' in the search box above and choose family to find suitable events. During the summer holidays and key seasonal periods, you'll find even more events designed for children and families, with activities suitable for all ages.
Yes. South Western Railway connects more than 50 stations across Hampshire with London Waterloo, Vauxhall and Clapham Junction making a day trip or weekend break easy from London. Book your rail tickets and enjoy your next event in Hampshire.
The guide below shows our full calendar of events in Hampshire. Whether you're looking for what's on this weekend or planning further ahead, you'll find plenty of inspiration. If you're local or visiting Hampshire for the first time, use the 'Map View' button to discover events happening near you.
Some of the events below take place on the Isle of Wight, which is easily accessible by ferry or hovercraft from Portsmouth or Lymington.
Number of results: 132
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Childrens Events
Ower, Romsey
Prepare for a Halloween Spooktacular at Paultons Park with special late-night openings and Halloween shows on selected dates in October!
Outdoor Event / Activities
Southampton
Go Ape Sundown Adventures are back for autumn 2026 at Go Ape Southampton, offering a new level of forest fun in the evenings after dark.
Sporting Event
Southampton
Join us for the 11th Anniversary of the ABP Southampton Marathon, Half, 10K, 5K and Fun Run! Taking place on Sunday 3rd May 2026 - run with friends, with your club or for a charity. The route takes you round parks, seas and city. Sign up now and…
Halloween
Brockenhurst
Pay a visit to New Forest Activities in Hampshire this Halloween for a wonderfully spooky twist on an archery session. Using weapons of old; vampires, werewolves and zombies will be your new targets. Plus to add an extra challenge, you'll get to…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Ringwood
Looking for a great way to get outdoors during the school holidays, with plenty of climbing, balancing and zip-lining to keep the whole family entertained. Take on the Halloween Potion Hunt, a ‘spell-tacular’ addition to Go Ape Moors Valley’s…
Other
Winchester
Heading away on a cruise from Southampton? Start your holiday stress-free with the Cruise & Park Package at voco Winchester Hotel & Spa.
Christmas
Sandown
The Garlic Farm's annual Christmas Market brings together the festive Pop-Up Shop and a weekend of local artisan stalls, seasonal food and Christmas cheer
Talks
23 Harbour Parade, Southampton
Calling all parents-to-be. Join the Nursery team and local experts at John Lewis Southampton to learn about this new stage of your life and our All Things Baby service, covering everything you need to know for the arrival of your child.
Outdoor Event / Activities
Winchester
Dig for fossils, wade into the wonders of The Chalk Stream and climb, crawl and explore Dormouse Den at Winchester Science Centre with their three outdoor exhibits exploring the local environment. From ancient seas and crystal-clear chalk streams to…
Show / Display
Brockenhurst
The New Forest and Hampshire County Show is an annual agricultural show held for three days at the end of July at New Park, Brockenhurst in Hampshire.
Fireworks
Southampton
Make it a night to remember at Utilita Bowl’s fireworks, which returns to the venue on Friday 6th November!
Walking
The Hard, Portsmouth
Get ready to explore Portsmouth like a real‑life detective! With two treasure‑hunt walks, you’ll spot clues, solve puzzles, and discover amazing things you’ve never noticed before. It’s fun, it’s outdoors, and it’s perfect for curious kids (and…
Christmas
Sutton Scotney
Celebrate the festive season in timeless style at Norton Park Hotel with an evening inspired by the charm and sophistication of Michael Bublé.
Fireworks
Newport
The 2026 Fireworks display will take place at Robin Hill Adventure Park on 7 November. Watch the sky come alive with a dazzling fireworks display for all ages to enjoy.
Tour
Stockbridge
Enjoy a guided house tour of one the finest and earliest surviving example of a Cottage Ornée – Houghton Lodge - a genre of ‘picturesque’ Gothic architecture that flourished for about 25 years from 1790.
Walking
Town Quay, Southampton
Explore Southampton’s big sights and hidden corners, uncover quirky stories, and enjoy 1–2 hours of fresh‑air exploring on each fully wheelchair and buggy‑friendly route. Fun, affordable and perfect for all ages.
Outdoor Event / Activities
Brockenhurst
The Spooky Halloween River Tours put a spin on New Forest Activities regular canoeing tours, and you'll be paddling your crafts by moonlight! Plus, there will be spooky tales about the resident ghosts of the river to give you a jump in the night!
Christmas
Winchester
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe.Taking place in November and December each year, Winchester Cathedral's Christmas Market is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, stunning location and handpicked high…
Childrens Events
Portsmouth
Fort Nelson will be transformed into a hub of spooky adventure, with a new 'Creepy Codebreaker' museum trail and a host of free daily activities for children and families from Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November.
Exhibition
Romsey
Talented local textile artists will present a diverse and imaginative range of textile art at Sir Harold Hillier Garden, encompassing both traditional and contemporary techniques and materials.
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